Iowa Social Security Disability Lawyers
Your Story Matters. We Want to Hear It.
Applying for Social Security Disability can be a daunting process. That’s why Schott Mauss & Associates is here for you. We simplify each step, helping you tell your story effectively so you can secure the benefits you deserve.
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See How We Help You at Each Stage of the Journey
Why an Attorney Is Key to a Successful SSI/SSDI Claim
The Social Security Disability process is hard to navigate on your own. When you work with an attorney, you have a partner and advocate at each step. In fact, those with representation are more likely to receive the benefits they deserve. Here are ways an attorney can help:
Compiling Necessary Documents.
You will need to supply a large amount of information about yourself, your family, your work history, and your medical condition. We’ll help you avoid errors that could delay your case.
Filing Your Initial Application.
Once we have the necessary documents, we are able to file the application on your behalf, streamlining the submission process.
Appealing Your Denial.
If you are denied, we will file a request for reconsideration and walk with you through the appeals process.
Representing You in Court.
Unlike some firms, we’re with you every step of the way, including representing you in court if necessary.
Looking for a guide on choosing the right attorney? Get the answers you need in our post: 11 Questions to Ask Your Social Security Disability Attorney.
Our Des Moines Disability Attorneys
OUR PROCESS
Navigating the Social Security Disability Process
Applying for Benefits
The Social Security Disability application process can be confusing, but it’s manageable with the right help. Our team helps you gather all the necessary medical evidence and complete the application accurately to avoid common mistakes that lead to denial.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will determine your eligibility based on five criteria:
- Are you currently working? You are eligible if you are not working or if your monthly earnings are below a certain threshold.
- Is your disability “severe” enough? Qualifying disabilities must affect your ability to work for at least a one-year period.
- Is your condition on the SSA’s list of disabling conditions? The SSA has a list of conditions considered to be severe. If your condition is on the list or similar in severity to a condition, it qualifies.
- Can you perform work you have done before? If you are able to do work you have done previously, you are likely not eligible for benefits.
- Can you perform another kind of work? The SSA will see if there is other comparable work that you could still perform.
Denied? We’re Here to Help
Only about one in five Social Security Disability applicants is approved on the first try. If you’ve been denied, it’s important not to despair. Over the decades, we have helped countless individuals overcome denials by successfully appealing denied claims.
Our team is well-prepared to help you appeal through any available means, including:
- A request for reconsideration
- An administrative hearing
- An appearance before the Appeals Council
- A federal court appeal
Read more about we help you through the appeals process.
Understanding Eligibility & Benefits
SSDI vs. SSI
Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is a program for people who are disabled or blind. It is funded through your Social Security payroll taxes. You are considered “insured” under this program if you have worked for a certain number of years and paid your FICA taxes, allowing you to have earned enough work credits.
Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is a financial needs-based program for people who are disabled or blind and is based solely on you and your family’s income and assets. Generally, you must have less than $2,000 in assets (or $3,000 as a couple) and a limited income in order to be eligible for this program.
Other Benefits
Children’s Disability Benefits
If you have a child who is unmarried and is under the age of 18 — or under 22 and attending school — and your child has conditions limiting his or her functioning, your child may qualify for Supplemental Security Income, or SSI for children. This is a needs-based program. Your child’s eligibility depends on your child’s income and resources and your income and resources.
Adult Child Disability Benefits
An adult may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits if they have been disabled since childhood. This type of benefit may be available to you if you are an adult who is able to prove that you were disabled prior to turning age 22. You are eligible under this program if one of your parents is deceased or receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits.
Widower’s & Surviving Spouse’s Benefits
If you are the widow or widower of a person who contributed enough Social Security payroll taxes, you may be able to begin receiving disability benefits at the age of 50 years old if you are disabled and your disability began before or within seven years of your spouse’s death.
TESTIMONIALS
What Our Clients are Saying
“I won my disability case on the FIRST round! I was told by everyone that it generally takes several attempts but with their assistance, not the situation at all! I found them to be very kind, helpful and quite good at their job!”
“Shannon helped me through the overwhelming process of trying to get my disability approved. I would absolutely recommend her. Even months after my hearing she was more than happy to help answer any questions I had. I cannot express my gratitude enough. I have a cousin who was also very happy with Schott Mauss.”
“I had a "Big Time" attorney's office from Houston TX. that advertised they would get me my Social Security Disability done and had a great record of winning claims. Well after almost 3 years later they said they were done and had gone as far as they could go for my claim. Called Schott Mauss & Associates in Des Moines and they said I have a strong case and within 4 months SSD agreed and I am receiving monthly disability payments.”
